Army tests improvements to M270A1 rocket launch system

An improved M270A1 Multiple Rocket Launch System vehicle has been put to the test at the White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico by the U.S. Army.

In testing to ensure the vehicle's new armored cab design didn't hamper system capability, 138 rockets were successfully fired from an improved vehicle.

The M270A1 is a tracked vehicle equipped with a missile and rocket launch rack for firing a variety of capable of firing many different kinds of artillery rockets and missiles. The original system adopted in 1983 and it has been upgraded several times since. The new and improved vehicle cab features enhanced armor and improving related components, such as windows.

Under current Army requirements, the system improvements bring the M270A1 in line with related systems like the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System, which is mounted on a newer armored medium truck, the Army said.